Ajax Amsterdam vs. Inter Milan: Champions League Group Stage Preview – September 18, 2025
Amsterdam, Netherlands – Johan Cruyff Arena will host a compelling Champions League Group Stage opener on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at 02:00 WIB (Wednesday evening in many regions), with live streaming available on Vidio. The match pits Ajax Amsterdam against Inter Milan, two clubs undergoing notable transitions as they aim to establish themselves in Europe’s elite competition.
Ajax enters the contest with a largely positive start to the season, maintaining an unbeaten record despite some challenges in away fixtures. The club is still motivated by the disappointment of relinquishing the Eredivisie title late last season following the departure of Francesco Farioli. Management subsequently appointed former Ajax defender John Heitinga as head coach, a move intended to inject a fresh viewpoint and strengthen the emotional connection within the team. Crucially, Ajax boasts a perfect home record, with all matches played in Amsterdam resulting in victories.
Inter Milan arrives in Amsterdam facing a more turbulent period. Despite reaching the Champions League final last season, a humbling 5-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain triggered a managerial change. Simone Inzaghi was replaced by Cristian Chivu, a figure with a unique connection to both clubs, having previously played for Ajax and achieved legendary status at Inter. While Chivu lacks extensive experiance managing at the senior level, he has been entrusted with leading the Nerazzurri through this new era.
Inter’s early Serie A campaign has been inconsistent. A convincing win against Torino offered encouragement, but subsequent defeats to Udinese and juventus have highlighted areas needing enhancement. This Champions League match against Ajax represents a vital prospect for Inter to demonstrate their continued competitiveness on the European stage.
The encounter promises to be a high-stakes affair, with both teams seeking to solidify their new identities. Ajax will be eager to reaffirm their standing as a respected force in European football, while Inter needs a positive result to validate the transition under Cristian Chivu and avoid a perhaps disappointing start to their Champions League campaign. The match is expected to be a tactical battle, with both sides looking to impose their style and gain an early advantage in the group.
